Vandalism responsible for frequent collapse of national grid – TCN

Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has highlighted vandalism of critical power infrastructure as a primary driver of frequent national grid failures, disrupting electricity supply nationwide.

During a community outreach program in Umelu, Benin, Edo State, Charles Iwuamadi, TCN’s General Manager for the Benin Region, emphasized the severe impact of vandalism.

“The frequency of grid collapses is closely tied to vandalism incidents,” Iwuamadi stated, noting a 30% rise in such acts over the past five years.

He explained that damaging even a single transmission line destabilizes the entire interconnected grid, causing widespread outages.

Iwuamadi also raised concerns about illegal structures built under high-tension lines, warning of significant safety risks.

“Living under transmission towers exposes people to high radiation and the deadly risk of a snapping line,” he cautioned, highlighting the catastrophic consequences of a 330kV line failure.

He stressed that TCN prefers community engagement over punitive actions like demolitions, saying, “Sensitizing communities is more effective than arrests.”

Supporting TCN’s stance, Suleiman Mohammed, Deputy Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo, urged communities to protect national assets.

“Vandalizing infrastructure deprives your community of development, as funds meant for new projects are diverted to repairs,” Mohammed warned.

He noted that areas with high vandalism rates risk losing future government investments.

Iwuamadi praised the Umelu community for its peaceful cooperation along the 131-kilometer Benin–Onitsha transmission line, encouraging continued support.

The outreach is part of TCN’s nationwide campaign to curb vandalism and ensure a stable power supply.

Local resident Sunday Aivinhenyer requested TCN’s assistance in upgrading community facilities, particularly grid connections.

Other community members called for regular maintenance of the right-of-way and enhanced security surveillance, pledging ongoing cooperation with TCN.